An enviable set of coattails

As the late Sen. Paul Simon's daughter runs for mayor in Carbondale, some Democrats hope her father's legacy will give her political career statewide cachet

November 25, 2006|By E.A. Torriero, Tribune staff reporter

This time Paul Simon was making his long-shot bid for the 1988 Democratic presidential nomination. The newlyweds pressed on through 17 states.

When Simon dropped out, the couple returned to southern Illinois and lived in a house Paul Simon built in Makanda, population 400, south of Carbondale. Politics, it seemed, was in their rearview mirror.

Paul Simon retired from public service in 1997 and returned to Makanda as well.

Meanwhile, Sheila Simon raised two daughters, Reilly and Brennan. She settled into a career teaching law at SIU and was a common sight on her black Peugeot bike. She helped start a local blues band named Loose Gravel and played the bassoon.

When politics finally beckoned Sheila Simon again in 2002, it was almost by chance.

Simon had become active in a community fight over what do with an abandoned high school. One of her neighbors noted her people skills and suggested she run for City Council. After a family confab, Simon agreed.

In a grass-roots campaign, Paul Simon campaigned door-to-door for his daughter. On primary night, her father a bundle of nerves, Simon placed first. She then drew the most council votes in the general election.

Detractors take aim

Supporters say Simon has added a needed critical eye to the council. But her detractors view her more as a meddler than an initiator.

Cole, a Republican who kicked off his re-election campaign before business leaders this month, says Simon has failed to advance an agenda. Simon said it's just as important to question council members' proposals and craft reforms as it is to present novel ideas.

Cole hopes to steer voters away from the Simon name and onto issues such as safe neighborhoods and the repaving of streets. Two others have also announced their candidacy: Jessica Davis, a political newcomer who directs student development at the SIU law school, and community activist and radio talk show host Melvin "Pepper" Holder.

But as the race gains momentum, it sometimes seems more of a referendum on the Simon legacy.

"She has much to lose," Cole said of Simon. "She is putting herself on the line, and if she doesn't win, her political career could be over."

Simon agrees. But for now she is plotting campaign strategy, with her father in mind. She plans to accept no donations more than $50 and is relying on a team of dozens of volunteers. She also plans to heed some advice from her father that still echoes in her mind.

"He told me to have coffee with lots of people," she said. "So that's what I'll do."